Psychosocial burden of psoriasis

Abstract:

Health professionals working outside of dermatology units are often unaware of the psychosocial burden and comorbidities associated with psoriasis. Patients with psoriasis are often stigmatized by others because their disease is exposed and visible which in turn leads to avoidance of social contacts and public places. Such avoidance is also associated with several other adverse health and life outcomes, such as poorer health related habits, poorer quality of life as well as educational and work limitations. The onset and worsening of psoriasis is also associated with stress and unpleasant life events. Furthermore, patients with psoriasis often suffer from different psychiatric disorders, especially anxiety and depression, including a suicidal risk. These issues are being increasingly recognized worldwide, indicating the need for an interdisciplinary approach which includes different forms of psychosocial treatments and support, such as cognitive-behavioral or group therapy.

Key words:
anxiety; depression; psoriasis; psychoneuroimmunology; quality of life; stress